A PHONE line providing translators for the emergency services has been launched on Teesside.

All those signing up to the new system, including the fire brigade and police, will be able to access an interpreter in an emergency situation, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Using a special phone line they can select the language needed and an interpreter will be online within 90 seconds.

The service, was the brainchild of Thornaby-based charity Everyday Language Solutions.

Director Wendy Lillie said: “We want to make sure that no matter what the situation, the emergency services, and the people they are trying help, get the support they need. We already provide 24 hour face-to-face interpreting but this will add a new dimension to that service.

“Everyone signing up will be able to access interpreting services from anywhere in the UK, all year round. Local authorities and emergency services including Cleveland Fire Brigade, Cleveland Police, and Primary Care Trusts covering Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Stockton and Redcar have all signed up.”

She outlined two situations in which the new system could be of value:

“If a fire crew were called out to an incident and found there were people involved who didn’t speak English, they will be able to show them the card,” she said.

“That person can then point to the language they speak and the brigade can be in touch with an interpreter who is fluent in that language in just over a minute. Calling one out can take over an hour.

“Midwives too will carry the card enabling them to provide the full range of care to mums-to-be via a speaker of their native tongue if they wish.”